Dovesfoot geranium
Geranium molle · Geraniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant dovesfoot geranium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to September
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall × 30 to 50 cm wide
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Europe, Western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, poor to moderate
Care
Exposure and light
Soft geranium thrives in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates bright areas well, which are ideal for stimulating abundant flowering. Avoid dense shade, which would slow growth and reduce flowers.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth, keeping the soil moist but never waterlogged. During prolonged dry periods, increase the frequency. In autumn and winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy.
Soil preparation
Prepare well-drained soil that is slightly poor in nutrients, as excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Amend if necessary with sand or fine gravel to improve drainage.
Fertilization
A monthly application of diluted fertilizer during the flowering period (April to September) is plenty. Favor a potassium-phosphorus balance to support flowering, without overloading with nitrogen.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch stems at the start of the season to encourage branching and a more compact shape. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to extend the flowering period. In late autumn, clean up dead material.
Pests and diseases
Soft geranium is generally robust, but watch for powdery mildew in humid and warm conditions. Excess moisture also promotes root rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage.
Did you know?
Soft geranium gets its name from its soft and velvety leaves to the touch, hence the epithet "mollis." Historically, species of the genus Geranium are nicknamed "crane's beak" because their elongated fruits resemble the beak of this bird, a characteristic shared by the entire Geraniaceae family.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Meadow geraniumGeranium pratense
- Bloody Crane's-billGeranium sanguineum
- Rock crane's-billGeranium macrorrhizum
- French crane's-billGeranium endressii
- Purple-vein geraniumGeranium wallichianum
- Himalayan crane's-billGeranium himalayense
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.